2012 TIME 100 Gala: A Complete Look

Bringing together some of the world's most influential people in one room, the eighth annual TIME 100 Gala got underway on Tuesday night (April 24) just before the publication officially releases the honorable list on Wednesday.

The entertaining evening, which was held at the Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City, had celebrities of all types gathering for the prestigious event including Claire Danes, who looked stunning in rusty red leather gown, along with "Bridesmaids" creator Kristen Wiig who looked fierce in a black lack jumpsuit as she mingled with fellow "SNL" funny-woman Amy Poehler.

Meanwhile, Rihanna turned up to offer up a stirring performance for the esteemed crowd while working the arrivals carpet in a strapless magenta gown and black heels before tossing on a silver frock for her stage effort.

Other high profile names joining in on the TIME 100 Gala included Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who gave the keynote address, as well as Chelsea Handler (with Andre Balazs), Tyra Banks and Tilda Swinton.

Enjoy the pictures of celebrity guests at the 2012 TIME 100 Gala at Lincoln Center in New York City (April 24).